K
evin Brown, set to lead the National Association of Realtors (NAR) in 2026, credits homeownership with lifting people out of poverty. "That's why I do this," he says, reflecting on his family's history, which is only three generations removed from slavery. As a broker-owner of Better Homes Realty and Brown Commercial Investment Real Estate Services in Oakland, Brown works alongside his brother, 2017 president William Brown.

    Brown sees real estate as a ladder, enabling first-time buyers to become move-up buyers and eventually second-home owners with investment property. He believes this transformative power is worth fighting for. With NAR's 2025 president-elect Kevin Sears having a "back-to-basics mentality," Brown plans to continue his approach while making necessary changes due to the organization's reduced budget.

    Nykia Wright, named permanent CEO in August, has identified communication gaps between departments as an area for improvement. Brown aims to leverage this insight to enhance collaboration and performance within NAR. He also wants agents to be aware of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act of 2017's expiration in 2025, which could impact homebuyer incentives.

    NAR is fighting to preserve these incentives, defend the mortgage interest deduction, and protect 1031 exchanges. Brown plans to increase outreach efforts by engaging with local and state associations, listening to agents' concerns, and finding innovative ways to deliver information, such as using short-form content on social channels.